LATE BREAKING UPDATES AND SHOW REPORTS:

STRICTLY SAIL CHICAGO & MIAMI BOTH SHOWING SIGNS OF POSITIVE ENTHUSIASM BY EXHIBITORS

NMMA’s Strictly Sail Show Manager Kevin Murphy is optimistic that Strictly Sail Chicago and Strictly Sail Miami will be stronger than originally anticipated, with renewed enthusiasm from exhibitors for both shows.

STRICTLY SAIL CHICAGO, NAVY PIER – JANUARY 28 – 31, 2010
More Info: www.StrictlySailChicago.com

“Exhibitors have proven the importance of the Strictly Sail Chicago show by returning in force,” said Murphy enthusiastically. “We’ve seen a few small cutbacks in both the booth and boat area, but considering everything, we’re looking at a pretty strong turnout with several new model debuts planned.”

Murphy also notes that the show’s marketing plan is solid and will feature radio advertising in several Midwest markets, a strong direct mail and email campaign, combined with several exciting giveaways and a ticket promotion to build attendance.

Key show features include more than 200 educational seminars over the show period that are geared toward the full range of sailors, from novice to seasoned salts. The Affordability Pavilion is a new feature which showcases boats for the budget-minded, with pricing options spotlighting boats that can be financed for $250 or less. Also premiering for the first time is the Curtis Crain Art Display presented by sailing enthusiast and professional painter Curtis Crain. Other attractions include the popular Author’s Corner, Green Boating Zone, Kid’s Club activity center and SAIL Magazine’s Innovation Station which will showcase the latest products to win the magazine’s innovation awards in technical advancement.

Promotional programs include the giveaway 7-night adventure package from Bitter End Yacht Club on a Moorings Club Line 403 in the British Virgin Islands; a 6-night Bareboat Charter on a Moorings Club line 403 in the BVIs including round-trip airfare; plus the chance to win a $1200 prize package of six on-water sailing instructional classes hosted by 3rd Coastal Cruising on Lake Michigan for two, along with unlimited sailing for one month.

STRICTLY SAIL MIAMI, SEA ISLE & BAYSIDE – FEBRUARY 11-15, 2010
More Info: www.StrictlySailMiami.com

“Considering how difficult a year we have had, I’m pleased to report that the exhibitors I’m speaking with about Miami seem to be optimistic that things are starting to turn around, and business is slowly getting better,” said Murphy. “As a result, Miami has really started to heat up … we’ve had more than 20 boats confirmed this week alone, and several companies reviewing space options.

“There seems to be a bit of nervous excitement and everyone is hoping that the winter season of shows will be the turnaround to better times,” he added. “As far as we’re concerned in terms of producing the show, we’re working exceptionally hard to do everything possible in order to deliver a strong buying crowd for our exhibitors.”

As previously noted, this year’s Miami sailing extravaganza includes a venue shift to Sea Isle Marina for the majority of in-water boats, accessories, gear and services, with a bonus Big Boat Row situated at Bayside Marina for the larger boats requiring greater clearance. Lagoon America, Leopard, Prout, Seawind Catamarans, Hylas, Passport and others are already confirmed Big Boat exhibitors.

Nearly 100 seminars are on tap for the event and will be presented by experts in air-conditioned facilities. The Eric Stone Band will perform live during Saturday night’s popular Latitude & Attitudes Cruiser’s Bash. Other key events include the free Discover Sailing sailboat rides, “Kid’s Aboard” boat building workshop and a two-day marine meteorology weather course taught by 38-year marine weather forecaster Lee Chesneau.

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